Adrian College announces new postsecondary credit agreements for health science, biomedical programs
Posted Friday, October 03, 2025
Author: Tina Claiborne
Adrian College has signed new agreements with the Michigan Department of Education, the Southwest Washtenaw Consortium (Chelsea, Dexter, Lincoln, Manchester, Milan and Saline high schools) and Madison High School in Adrian to allow students to earn college credits while still in high school.
Tina Claiborne, Ph.D., Adrian College professor and program director of athletic training, said the agreements expand opportunities for students in state-approved Career and Technical Education (CTE) health science programs and Project Lead the Way (PLTW) biomedical science pathways.
Claiborne noted that by earning early college credit, CTE and PLTW students gain a significant advantage in making a streamlined transition into Adrian College’s allied and pre-health programs.
“These local and statewide agreements reflect our commitment to creating seamless pathways for motivated high school students,” Claiborne said. “By aligning rigorous CTE and PLTW programs with Adrian College coursework, we are making higher education more affordable, accessible, and efficient.”
“This partnership with Adrian College is a key catalyst for students to affirm, initiate and successfully immerse themselves in their postsecondary plan on their way to high-wage, high-skill and in-demand occupations,” said Ryan Rowe, Ph.D., CTE director and CEPD administrator for Washtenaw ISD.
CTE health science and PLTW biomedical science programs are regionally and nationally recognized for excellence and overseen by both the Michigan Department of Education and national governing bodies. These programs provide students with hands-on, career-focused preparation for high-demand and rewarding career paths, including athletic training and exercise science; pre-professional programs such as pre-med, pre-PT and pre-PA; nursing and allied health professions; medical school; emergency medical services and public health; and biomedical research and laboratory sciences.
Claiborne said Adrian College is proud to partner with local high schools while also executing a statewide agreement for any student completing a state-approved health science CTE curriculum.
Stacey Stover, Ph.D., MDE early college manager, said this collaboration “provides high school students with the opportunity to earn college credit while exploring career pathways. These partnerships not only save families time and money but also give students a head start on their postsecondary education and workforce goals by building real-world skills, confidence and a clearer vision for their future.”
Madison High School’s PLTW biomedical science pathway engages high school students in hands-on, real-world learning that mirrors the work of health professionals. Students build a strong foundation in biomedical and health sciences while developing critical thinking, collaboration and problem-solving skills essential for future studies and careers in health care.
The SWWC offers state-approved CTE pathways in health science and in exercise science and sports medicine. Expert classroom instruction, paired with work-based learning opportunities, provides students with a strong foundation in traditional and athletic health care and access to industry-recognized certifications such as CPR, first aid and certified nursing assistant (CNA).
For questions about the agreements, contact Claiborne at tclaiborne@adrian.edu or Adrian College’s registrar’s office at registrar@adrian.edu.
Adrian College is a private, co-educational liberal arts college in southeast Michigan. Known for its innovative programs and student-centered mission, Adrian College continues to build partnerships that support academic excellence, workforce development, and lifelong learning. For more information about Adrian College, visit adrian.edu.
